Programme Background:
In partnership with KWETB, we run an Equestrian Training Programme that is a 2-year full time vocational training programme which enables the learner to develop the knowledge, skills and competence in a broad range of equine skills which will enable the student to work in a variety of equine sectors. Successful graduates will be awarded a QQI level 4 Major Award in Horsemanship.
We are seeking to recruit a suitably qualified person to support a young adult who learns best with specific supports that work for her and that meet her sensory needs. This role is ideal for someone who truly values neurodiversity and truly appreciates and understands that sensory sensitivity is merely a different way of processing the world around them.
Position Title: SNA / Support for a Young Adult completing an Equestrian Training Programme (Mornings Only)
Position Description: To support the student to complete the Equestrian Training Programme and to fully participate in all associated activities.
Department Name: Equestrian Learning Centre
Reporting to: Equestrian Training Programme (ETP) Team Leader
Based at: Festina Lente Equestrian Learning Centre. The primary base for the position will be in our HQ at Old Connaught Avenue, Bray, Co Wicklow (relocating to Kilpedder, Co. Wicklow in 2 to 4 years).
Contract Type: Part-time, Special Purpose Contract, Mornings Only (Monday to Friday)
Position Goals: As part of the programme faculty, provide individualised support to the student of the programme , safeguarding their participation and ultimate achievement of their QQ1 Level 4 Major Award in Horsemanship.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
- To support the delivery of the Equestrian Training Programme on an individualised basis tailored to the learning needs and styles of a particular student learner with additional learning needs, including all yard-based activities, QQI modules and other activities as set out in the programme timetable, in conjunction with the Equestrian Training Programme Team Leader
Student and Stakeholder Engagement
- To ensure the student learner has an opportunity to engage in fair and consistent assessment for the purpose of achieving the named QQI awards,
- To provide a high standard of individualised support and intervention. This may include liaison with external services including advocating on behalf of the student and their family where appropriate.
- To collaborate with the student with additional needs, documenting all engagement, intervention, support plans, progress notes, reports referrals to agreed professional standards and communicate verbally and /or in writing the support/recommendations/intervention programmes to the team in line with agreed policies and procedures.
- To liaise with the ETP Team Leader regarding the timing of transitions between the different modules of the programme from individualised delivery, progressing to classroom participation as appropriate.
- Together with the wider student cohort, facilitate the additional support needed to enable the student learner with additional needs to engage in monthly educational community-based activities and to ensure the health and safety of the student learner during these off-site events in conjunction with the ELC,
- To support the student learner with additional and complex learning needs with career development and facilitate work enrichment placements,
- To act as a mentor and advocate for the student learner involved in the programme to support them to achieve individual goals in collaboration with the ELC team,
- To facilitate and evaluate person centred planning, in the form of individualised training plans and progress reports,
- To liaise with student learner’s family members/guardians and/or support persons as appropriate,
Health & Safety
- Observe, report and take appropriate action on any matter which may be detrimental to the student learners’ safety and wellbeing,
- Complete incident reporting and near miss events,
- Complete and review risk assessments, including the development of a positive risk management plan for student learners,
- Adhere to all internal policies and procedures and to all relevant Health & Safety legislation.
Knowledge, skills and abilities
- Proven experience in programme supporting a young adult, with particular focus on young adult learner engagement with additional needs and positive behaviour solutions in a learning environment,
- A thorough AND progressive understanding of Non-Intellectual Disability (ID) Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) including Asperger's Syndrome and High Functioning Autism with respect to supporting social interactions, communication styles, the presence of repetitive or restricted behaviours/interests.
- Proven ability to mentor and empower student learners with additional and complex needs, promoting positive engagement and person-centred decision-making,
- Proven experience in facilitating person centred planning and behaviour support for individuals with additional and complex learning needs,
- Exceptional organisational skills with attention to detail for record management and programme evaluation,
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills both individually and across a team setting,
- Ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse groups,
- Commitment to fostering a culture of social inclusion,
- Enjoys the outdoor environment and be physically able and fit for the strenuous nature of the post.
Education and experience
- An appropriate third level qualification in a related field e.g. Health Care Support/Social Care/Health Care/Youth Work/Psychology,
- Proven experience of working in the area of disability, mental health, youth work or another related field,
- Some equestrian experience
- Full and clean Irish driving licence.
Language: Fluent English
Work Authorisation: Ireland, required
Benefits of Employment:
Compensation: The salary will be commensurate with experience.
Benefits Include:
- Access to professional training and continuous development programmes.
- Access to Educational Support
- HSF Health Plan, FC01
- Bike to work scheme
- On-site parking
Closing date: 22 August 2026
Email CV plus cover letter to [email protected] : +353879633348
https://www.festinalente.ie
Equal Opportunities Statement: Festina Lente is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, particularly those from diverse and underrepresented communities.
FESTINA LENTE CHILD PROTECTION POLICY / GARDA VETTING / MANDATORY DECLARATION Garda Vetting for all employees and volunteers is compulsory and those candidates invited for interview will be asked to complete a Garda Vetting form for submission at that time. The successful candidate will be provided with a copy of the Festina Lente Child Protection Policy and will be required to sign their acceptance of the contents of this document. A Mandatory Declaration Form must be signed in advance of commencement of employment.
Benefits:
- Bike to work scheme
- On-site parking
Work authorisation:
Work Location: In person
